Targeted therapy is an innovative approach to cancer treatment that focuses on specific molecules or genes involved in cancer growth. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which affects all rapidly dividing cells, targeted therapy aims to interfere with the growth and survival of cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. This approach is particularly beneficial for cancers driven by specific genetic mutations or abnormalities in cellular pathways.
In targeted therapy, drugs are designed to block signals that cancer cells need to grow and divide. For example, in ovarian cancer, PARP inhibitors target the PARP enzyme, which cancer cells use to repair their damaged DNA. By inhibiting this enzyme, PARP inhibitors cause cancer cells to die, particularly in cancers that have BRCA mutations.
Another form of targeted therapy involves angiogenesis inhibitors, which prevent tumors from forming new blood vessels, effectively starving them of the nutrients and oxygen they need to grow.
Targeted therapies can be used alone or in combination with other treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
One of the key advantages of targeted therapy is its potential for fewer side effects compared to traditional cancer treatments. However, not all cancers are suited for targeted therapy, and it is often used in patients who have specific biomarkers or genetic mutations that respond to these drugs.
This approach represents a significant advancement in personalized cancer treatment, offering hope for better outcomes and fewer side effects.
Dr. Helaleh Khoshbakht is a highly respected radiation oncologist in Tehran with extensive expertise in treating various cancers, including breast, […]
